New Delhi: An intelligence-led security operation in Manipur’s Senapati district turned violent on Tuesday evening after a mob attacked an Assam Rifles camp, damaged military vehicles and attempted arson. The incident marks the third attack on Assam Rifles personnel in the past 10 days, highlighting continuing security challenges in the state.
The operation was launched after credible intelligence inputs indicated the presence of armed cadres in the Makuilongdi area, around 2 km west of the designated NSCN-IM camp at Oklong. According to the Assam Rifles, the intelligence suggested that armed cadres were moving outside their designated camp carrying weapons and wearing uniforms, apparently in violation of the ceasefire ground rules. An area domination patrol and search operation was subsequently launched in the area.
As information about the operation spread, a large crowd gathered in Senapati town and moved towards the Assam Rifles camp on Tuesday night. Although the search columns had already withdrawn to avoid escalating tensions, the mob allegedly pelted stones, damaged property and attempted to set parts of the camp on fire.
During the violence, one Assam Rifles light vehicle was set ablaze, while two trucks were overturned and damaged. A civilian vehicle was also burnt.
Manipur Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were deployed to assist in restoring law and order. The Assam Rifles said its personnel exercised maximum restraint and used minimum force, including tear-gas grenades and blank rounds, to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation.
The situation was brought under control by midnight, with no injuries or casualties reported among civilians or security personnel.
The Assam Rifles said troops remained in contact with local representatives throughout the operation, assuring them that the search was aimed solely at maintaining peace and security. Efforts are continuing in coordination with civil society organisations and the district administration to maintain communal harmony and prevent further unrest.